Cost of Living: Austin, TX vs Garland, TX (2026)

Austin

Texas
134
VS

Garland

Texas
96

Austin is 40% more expensive than Garland.

$1,655/mo ↑ 9%
Median Rent
$1,525/mo ↓ 8%
$91,461/yr ↑ 22%
Median Income
$74,717/yr ↓ 18%
$512,700 ↑ 106%
Home Value
$248,900 ↓ 51%
$1,747/mo ↑ 21%
Owner Costs
$1,445/mo ↓ 17%
967,862
Population
245,298

Tax Comparison

0%
Income Tax
0%
6.25%
State Sales Tax
6.25%
1.6%
Property Tax
1.6%

Affordability

21.7%
rent-to-income
Affordability
24.5%
rent-to-income

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Austin, TX and Garland, TX, the overall cost of living indices are 134 and 96 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $130/month cheaper in Garland, saving renters about $1,560/year.

Median household income is $16,744/year higher in Austin. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Austin is $512,700 compared to $248,900 in Garland.

Both cities share the same state tax structure since they are in Texas.

Frequently Asked Questions

Austin vs Garland — common questions

Is Austin or Garland cheaper to live in?
Based on our cost index, Garland is cheaper to live in with an index of 96 compared to 134 (US average = 100).
What is the rent difference between Austin and Garland?
Median rent in Austin is $1,655/month and in Garland it's $1,525/month — a difference of $130/month.
Which city has higher income, Austin or Garland?
Median household income is $91,461 in Austin and $74,717 in Garland. Median household income is $16,744/year higher in Austin.
How do taxes compare between Texas and Texas?
Both cities are in Texas and share the same state tax rates: 0% income tax, 6.25% sales tax, and 1.6% property tax.
Should I move to Austin or Garland?
It depends on your priorities. Austin has a cost index of 134 with median rent of $1,655/mo, while Garland has a cost index of 96 with rent of $1,525/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.
View Austin details → View Garland details →

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